A sugar skull is a representation of a human skull or skeleton, often made from either sugar or clay, used in the Mexican celebration of the Day of the Dead. Sugar skulls are an iconic symbol of the Day of the Dead and are often placed on an altar or gravestone as an offering to the spirit of the dead. Each sugar skull represents a departed loved one and is usually decorated with the persons name. Sugar skulls are made from a paste called alfeñique, which is a mixture of sugar, hot water, and lemon, among other ingredients, that creates a moldable mass akin to caramel. They are often decorated with bright colors and intricate designs. Sugar skulls were originally created as gifts to be eaten by children, but they are now more commonly used as offerings to be placed on altars known as ofrendas. While sugar skulls may seem enticing to eat, they are more folk art than a sweet treat and are only air-dried and decorated with non-edible items like sequins. The act of painting a human face to resemble a skull, sometimes known as face painting, "sugar skull" make-up, or Catrina make-up, has become popular in recent years, particularly in urban centers.